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Element Prefab Housing by MOS Utilizes Fibonacci Growth Patterns

Prefab housing is as much about efficiency of construction as it is about building homes that make sense for the end user. The Element House, by MOS Architects, is a modular housing prototype designed for a "new ecology" -- one that can grow and change depending on the family's needs. Based around a modular element, with strong environmental design criteria, the Element House expands according to the Fibonacci sequence, "a describer of developmental patterns in living organism."

MOS Architects‘ prefab strategy is based around a stereotypical housing unit, the Element, which has a simple cross section. This housing unit can the be combined in an infinite number of ways, but for the home to make sense, MOS uses the Fibonacci sequence to create the layout. In theory this results in a more natural, more organic home, which is hopefully more pleasing to the those living inside. MOS also proposes that this prefab housing concept could be expanded past single family homes, to multi-family homes or even a whole village. Elemental units can be added or subtracted as needed to accommodate for new families or changing needs.

One distinct characteristic of the dwellings are the chimneys seen popping up from some of the modular units. These are actually not chimneys, but light wells, which bring natural light into the interior of the homes and also act to increase natural ventilation. MOS’s inclusion of these stacks was also an exploration of the hearth, and by removing it, they comment on the changing times, and how technology has removed the need for the traditional fireplace.